The quick answer is no you can't, as many files are only on the original cd. This problem sounds like you only have the restore disks and want a copy of the install disk. If that's the case, the best workaround is to 'ghost' the installation then you can replace the OS anytime on the same machine, AFTER backing up your files!
No keys would even be required for the exact same machine.
However, if the purpose is to install the OS on a different computer, say a replacement unit, then an original setup disk would be needed. The easiest way to get a copy of an original disk (other than buying one) is to borrow and copy a disk from a friend. This would be perfectly legal provided you have your own install keys, as you suggest.
One additional thought: It might be possible to create a new installation CD if you have access to the CAB files that could have been loaded onto the computer with the original install. Simply copy the CAB files to a CD and you shouldl be good to go. This is only a remote possibility if the original install was done by loading and installing the OS, however.
Haven't heard of CAB files? I hadn't either, but it turns out that CAB files are files with the extension .cab, which stands for cabinet. Finding CAB files is either dead easy - they are located on the root directory (C:) - or they are impossible to find.
Realistically, the idea of copying the CAB files is pretty remote, because only a limited number of independent manufacturers (ma and pa computer stores) use this easy to find method. Major vendors use a different method of managing the installation process and the CAB files tend to be spread out and buried. Even the extension names have been changed to confuse the innocent.
It's really just much simpler to copy a buddies CD if you have a legal copy of the OS already, with working key
No comments:
Post a Comment